If you're on the hunt for a quality turntable, the Fluance RT85 might have caught your eye. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by choices in the market, especially with concerns about sound quality and durability.
Let’s dive into what makes the RT85 stand out and if it truly lives up to the hype. Read on to discover if this turntable is the right fit for you!
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Darkside Vinyl's Verdict:
The Fluance RT85 is a solid choice for vinyl lovers. We were impressed by the sound quality and the sleek design. It delivers a rich audio experience that’s hard to beat at this level.
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PROS
- High-fidelity sound
- Acrylic platter for better performance
- Ortofon cartridge included
CONS
- Manual operation
- Higher price range
- May require additional setup
Get the Full Picture
Fluance RT85 | Waldo Flynn's Opinion
The Fluance RT85 has truly elevated my vinyl listening experience with its rich sound quality and elegant design, making it a joy to use every day.
Fluance RT85 | Amazon's Opinion
Amazon customers overwhelmingly agree that the Fluance RT85 delivers exceptional sound quality and a stylish design, making it a fantastic choice for vinyl enthusiasts.
Fluance RT85 | Reddit's Opinion
The Fluance RT85 is widely praised by Reddit users for its excellent sound quality and value, making it a top choice for both beginners and audiophiles alike.
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Our team of experts thoroughly tests and researches each product to provide you with accurate, unbiased recommendations. Learn more about our review process.
Fluance RT85 Overview
The Fluance RT85 is a solid choice for anyone diving into vinyl. It features a high-fidelity belt-drive system, which ensures smooth playback. The acrylic platter adds a touch of elegance while also enhancing sound quality.
When we tested it, the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge really stood out. It delivered clear and vibrant audio, pulling out detail in our favorite records. Overall, the RT85 is a great way to enjoy your vinyl collection, even if it has a few minor quirks.
Design and Build Quality
The Fluance RT85 sports an eye-catching design that immediately stands out. The combination of wood veneer and a sleek finish gives it a retro yet modern vibe. It feels sturdy and well-built, which is essential for a turntable.
One of the standout features is the acrylic platter. It's not just for looks; the acrylic helps reduce vibrations and provides a more stable surface for your records. This means you get clearer sound quality, and your vinyl is better protected.
The overall aesthetics and build quality of the RT85 make it a real centerpiece in any room. It's pleasing to the eye and feels solid, which adds to the overall listening experience.
Audiophile-Grade Sound
When it comes to sound quality, the RT85 truly shines. The Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge is a game changer. It delivers clean highs and rich lows that breathe life into your favorite records.
During our tests, we noticed the attention to detail in the sound reproduction. Whether it was classical, jazz, or rock, every genre sounded immersive. The clarity is impressive, making you feel like you're right there in the studio.
This turntable really excels at bringing out the nuances in music. If you're an audiophile or just someone who appreciates good sound, you'll be very pleased with the RT85's performance.
Belt-Drive Mechanism
The belt-drive mechanism is another highlight of the Fluance RT85. This design helps to isolate the motor noise from the platter, ensuring a quieter performance. You won’t hear any unwanted hums or vibrations when you’re listening to your favorite tracks.
While belt-drive systems are often associated with a more traditional feel, they deliver excellent sound quality. During playback, we noticed a smoother and more natural sound that enhanced our listening experience.
This mechanism is especially beneficial for those who want a more authentic analog sound. It really shines when playing high-quality vinyl records, making the listening experience more enjoyable.
Setup and User Experience
Setting up the RT85 is straightforward, even for beginners. The included instructions are clear, making the initial setup a breeze. It’s refreshing to see a product that caters to both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers alike.
Once set up, using the turntable is intuitive. The controls are easy to understand, and switching between speeds is seamless. This user-friendly design enhances the overall experience, letting you focus on enjoying music.
We appreciated the thoughtful design elements, like the built-in anti-skate feature. It ensures that the stylus tracks correctly, minimizing wear on your records. This kind of attention to detail is what separates the RT85 from many other turntables on the market.
Connectivity Options
The Fluance RT85 offers versatile connectivity options that make it easy to integrate into your existing audio setup. Whether you want to connect it to a receiver or a Bluetooth speaker, the choice is yours.
We found the RCA outputs to be reliable and of good quality. They provide a solid connection to your audio equipment, ensuring you get the best sound possible. If you prefer a wireless setup, you might need to invest in a Bluetooth transmitter.
This flexibility in connectivity allows you to tailor your listening experience to your preferences. It’s nice to have options, especially when building a custom audio setup.
Fluance RT85 Review 2025 | Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Fluance RT85 really impressed me with its rich sound quality and sleek design. The acrylic platter and Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge truly elevate the listening experience. Though not without a few minor quirks, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into high-fidelity vinyl.
- High-fidelity sound
- Acrylic platter for better performance
- Ortofon cartridge included
- Manual operation
- Higher price range
- May require additional setup
Fluance RT85 Review 2025 | FAQs
What type of cartridge does the Fluance RT85 come with?
The Fluance RT85 is equipped with the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, known for its audiophile-grade sound quality.
Is the Fluance RT85 a belt-drive turntable?
Yes, the Fluance RT85 features a high-fidelity belt-drive system for smooth and accurate playback.
What type of platter does the Fluance RT85 use?
It uses an acrylic platter, which helps to enhance sound quality and reduce vibrations.
Can the Fluance RT85 be connected to external speakers?
Yes, the RT85 can be connected to external speakers or an audio receiver for a complete sound system experience.
Is setup for the Fluance RT85 easy for beginners?
Yes, the Fluance RT85 is designed for easy setup, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
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